Feel the romance at the House of Juliet, which inspired the story of Romeo and Juliet. Then explore the city's ancient past from the impressive Roman Arena to the stately Renaissance Scaligero Palace. When you return, admire the many churches and visit the atmospheric Roman Theatre. Don't forget to take in the paintings and armoury in the museum at handsome 14th-century fort, Castelvecchio, by the gushing River Adige.
You'll find that Verona's historic centre is looped by the River Adige, neatly framing the city on three sides. You can easily explore Verona's historic sites as most of them are crammed into the maze of streets bordered by the river. Look out for Piazza delle Erbe, the lively square at the heart of old Verona. Located on the site of the former Roman forum, it preserves its Roman street layout. You'll find the magnificent Roman Arena just south of the piazza, towards the 14th-century Castelvecchio fort and the arched Ponte Scaligero bridge across the river.
Get your bearings from the remarkably intact, massive Roman Arena as you take in the views over Verona's rooftops. Follow groups of hand-holding lovers to gaze up at 12th-century House of Juliet's balcony, and even Juliet's Tomb if you want to follow the legend further. Climb the historic Lamberti Tower on Piazza delle Erbe square and admire the Baroque Maffei Palace. Take in the tapestry of different buildings lining Piazza dei Signori square, with their jumble of architectural styles. Learn about the della Scala family, the Renaissance rulers of Verona, at their former home, the 14th-century Scaligero Palace.
Admire early Renaissance statues and frescoes in the Gothic Saint Anastasia church, and Romanesque San Zeno Basilica with its magnificent rose window and cloisters. Browse the museum of medieval and Renaissance paintings and artefacts at 14th-century Castelvecchio fort, and see vestiges of Verona's Roman past at the Archaeological Museum. Drop into Verona's elegant bars lining Piazza delle Erbe square, and try local Soave if you like white wine, Valpolicella or Bardolino if red wine is your tipple.
